What is the primary purpose of a chewable tablet?

The primary purpose of a chewable tablet is to be chewed before swallowing. This form of medication is designed to make it easier for individuals, especially children or those who have difficulty swallowing pills, to take their medications. By chewing the tablet, the surface area increases, which can help with faster dissolution and absorption in the digestive tract. Chewable tablets often have flavors added to enhance palatability, encouraging adherence to the medication regimen.

Swallowing whole is not appropriate for chewable tablets, as this method would negate the intended design and benefits. Dissolving in water is typically associated with effervescent or soluble tablets, not chewable ones. The concept of controlled release is more commonly associated with specific formulations designed to release the active ingredient over an extended period, which does not apply to the general function of chewable tablets.